When I look back on 2016, what stands out in my mind are all the remarkable people I got the chance to connect with. I find it pretty astonishing, actually.

Several years ago when I put up this website and got serious about drawing wild things, I thought it would be a lonely journey, but it hasn’t been like that at all. I meet genuinely good-hearted folks all the time; people who’ve inspired me with their life stories, others who’ve made me smile through their kindness and those who’ve pushed me to think differently.

Looking ahead into 2017:

Drawing Workshops. Over the holidays I’ve been creating promotional art for upcoming classes and everything’s falling into place. Last year was a big learning experience in running workshops, and I thank the approx. 70 people who attended and made them a success. While I am paid to teach the classes, the majority of the funds raised through registration fees goes to the non-profit groups that I partner with. Overall the workshops have brought in thousands of dollars, funds which helps these organizations carry on with the good work that they do.

Art Prints. Right now, over 150 of my prints floating around out there on people’s walls and I think that’s really swell. This year I’m planning to create a Turtle print, and while I’m not yet sure which species, it’ll be native to Ontario. A new bird print will likely be in the works too. A couple new wildlife rehab facilities have also been in touch about teaming up to sell prints, so that’s always exciting.

The sketch at the top of the page is a Common Snipe (also called a Wilson’s Snipe). I’m finally getting around to doing a painting of it and will share some images in the coming weeks.